Summary:
Local startups are innovating needle-free drug delivery methods.
Microneedles in patches can deliver medication without the pain of traditional needles.
Anodyne Nanotech is focusing on GLP-1 weight loss drugs with their microneedle patches.
Vaxess Technologies collaborates with Novo Nordisk to test patch efficacy for weight loss drugs.
Successful patches could revolutionize medication delivery and ease the fears of needle-phobic patients.
A New Era for Medication Delivery
Local companies are developing innovative technologies that aim to eliminate the painful experience of needles, opting for patches that feel more like Velcro against your skin. According to Michael Schrader, a founder of Vaxess Technologies, the first effective patch would mark a significant shift away from traditional needle and syringe methods.
Microneedle Technology
The latest advancements involve using microneedles embedded in a sticker that can penetrate the skin without the discomfort of a full needle poke. These microneedles are often made from polymers that dissolve once they reach the skin's fluid, delivering medication more efficiently than conventional methods.
Anodyne Nanotech's Focus on Weight Loss Drugs
Anodyne Nanotech, a Boston startup, is specifically targeting GLP-1 weight loss drugs. Cofounder Konstantinos Tzortzakis, who has a fear of needles, emphasizes that their microneedles are less than one millimeter long, ensuring they do not touch nerve endings. The challenge remains to deliver a consistent and effective dose with their patches.
Previous Failures in Patch Technology
Schrader notes the difficulties faced by previous attempts in the industry, such as Radius Health's patch for osteoporosis and Zosano Pharma's migraine patch, both of which failed in clinical trials. These setbacks highlight the complexity of developing reliable patch systems.
Vaxess Technologies and Partnerships
Vaxess, focusing on patch delivery for vaccines, recently announced a collaboration with Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, to test the efficacy of their patch system. With nearly $100 million raised in funding, Vaxess aims to conduct clinical trials for therapeutic drugs by 2026.
Future Prospects with Lybra Bio
Another startup, Lybra Bio, aims to create a patch for treating skin conditions, having raised initial funding and planning human tests by 2027. The goal is to deliver drugs precisely to affected areas without the systemic side effects of injections.
The Potential Impact
If successful, these patches could revolutionize medication delivery, extending patent durations for drugmakers and reducing the need for refrigeration, making it easier to distribute medications. Moreover, trypanophobes can look forward to a less stressful experience with medications that traditionally required needles.
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